Dometic R31 Stove Review + Gas Pressure Test Guide

Dometic R31 Stove Real-World Performance

Good news: installing and testing your Dometic R31 stove is solidly DIY territory—no $200 service call needed when you can nail this upgrade yourself in an afternoon. The R31 addresses many of the intermittent flame issues you're experiencing - particularly the oven reliability problems that plague older Wedgewood models.

RV owners consistently report better flame consistency, more even oven heating, and fewer pilot light issues with the R31. The electronic ignition system is more reliable than the standing pilot designs, and the oven thermostat maintains temperature much better than the Wedgewood Vision's notoriously finicky system.

The Gas Pressure Test Explained

That pressure test you're asking about is crucial and required by code, but Dometic's manual is frustratingly vague. Here's what you actually need to know:

Required Equipment

• Low-pressure gas gauge: 0-15 PSI (for higher pressure applications) or 0-30" water column (WC) for low-pressure gas work like this
• 1/8" NPT fitting or rubber hose adapter
• Pipe thread sealant or Teflon tape
• Adjustable wrench set
• Bubble solution for leak testing

Understanding the Test Port

The Dometic R31's gas regulator has a 1/8" NPT test port with a removable plug. This port allows you to measure downstream pressure - the pressure being delivered to your stove after regulation. You're looking for 11" water column (WC), which equals 0.4 PSI.

Step-by-Step Pressure Test Procedure

⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Working with gas systems carries serious risks including fire, explosion, and asphyxiation. Turn off all ignition sources, ensure adequate ventilation, and never smoke or use open flames during testing. If you smell gas at any point, immediately shut off the gas supply and evacuate the area until it's safe.

1. Safety first: Ensure all gas appliances are off and the area is well-ventilated. No smoking or open flames during this procedure.
2. Locate the test port: On the R31's regulator, find the small threaded plug marked "TEST" - it's usually on the side or bottom of the regulator body.
3. Remove the test plug: Ensure gas supply is off and area is well-ventilated, then using an appropriate wrench, carefully remove the 1/8" NPT test plug. Minimal gas may escape from residual pressure.
4. Connect your gauge: Thread your pressure gauge or hose adapter into the test port using pipe sealant. Hand-tighten plus 1-2 wrench turns - don't over-tighten.
5. Turn on gas supply: Open the LP tank valve or main supply valve upstream of the stove.
6. Create demand: Light one burner on the stove to create gas flow through the regulator.
7. Read the pressure: Your gauge should read 11" WC (±1" WC is acceptable). If using a PSI gauge, you want 0.4 PSI.
8. Test multiple burners: Light additional burners and the oven to ensure pressure remains stable under full demand.
9. Shut down and seal: Turn off all burners, close gas supply, remove gauge, and reinstall the test plug with sealant.

Troubleshooting Pressure Issues

If your pressure reading is off, here's what different readings mean:

Pressure too high (over 12" WC): Regulator is failing to reduce pressure properly. This is dangerous and requires immediate regulator replacement.

Pressure too low (under 10" WC): Could indicate a failing regulator, undersized gas line, or restriction in the system. Check connections and consider regulator replacement.

Pressure drops significantly with multiple burners: Usually indicates inadequate gas supply line sizing or a marginal regulator.

Why This Test Matters

This isn't just bureaucratic nonsense - improper gas pressure causes exactly the problems you're having with your Wedgewood Vision. Too little pressure leads to weak flames that blow out easily. Too much pressure creates safety hazards and poor combustion.

The Dometic R31's regulator is designed to maintain consistent pressure even as gas demand changes, which is why it typically solves the intermittent oven issues you're experiencing.

Installation Tips from the Field

Based on numerous R31 installations, here are some real-world tips:

• The R31 requires more clearance than many older stoves - double-check your cabinet dimensions
• The gas connection is in a slightly different location than most Wedgewood units
• Plan for electrical connection if your current setup only has piezo ignition
• The oven door seal makes a significant difference in performance - ensure proper installation

When to Call a Professional

Call a certified RV gas technician if:

• You're not comfortable working with gas connections
• Pressure readings are consistently out of range
• You smell gas at any point during testing
• You don't have the proper low-pressure gauge equipment
• Local codes require professional installation/testing

Gas work isn't the place to wing it - improper installation can be deadly.

Bottom Line on the R31

The Dometic R31 is a worthwhile upgrade from your Wedgewood Vision, especially for the oven reliability. The pressure test seems intimidating, but it's straightforward with the right gauge. Most RV owners who make this switch report significantly better cooking performance and far fewer frustrating flame-out issues.

If you're handy with basic tools and comfortable following procedures carefully, this is a manageable DIY project. Just don't skip that pressure test - it's what ensures your new stove will perform reliably for years to come. Remember that proper gas pressure testing and installation are critical for both performance and safety in your RV.

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